family fun

After traveling the world you can really come home and think like a tourist in your own city and make the most of what we have on our doorstep. We headed into the City for a little mini break last night to be close to the action of White Night Melbourne. We booked last minute and found a great deal on Expedia to stay at the Melbourne Marriott in a room with two double beds. When we checked in my husband and I were given a glass of cold sparkling wine and our children little lolly bags. It was a really nice welcome. First impressions absolutely count and we were off to a great start.

We went up to our room and the kids were very excited, Especially Mr Three who explored every cupboard and switch! We had a nice view of Exhibition Street below and Miss Six was thrilled when she saw a horse and carriage go by below.

We put my son in the stroller and we walked with our daughter to Flinders Lane where we lucky enough to get a walk-in table at Fonda. Once up the stairs at the entrance we found the experince very child friendly. We sat at the rear on picnic table style seating. Music was loud enough that children could be loud and blend in. Food was quick, fresh and really good value. Very yummy Mexican! Mr Three fell asleep and missed the whole experience. Thank god we had the stroller for him. Its so good for napping when you are on the go.

After dinner my son woke up and we walked over to Birrarung Marr. The sun was setting and the colours in the sky were purple and pink while the city lights flickered on one by one. Birrarung Marr had hot air balloon baskets shooting flames into the sky, There was great music playing in a brightly decorated circus style marque and lots of people lining up at food vans. My husband and daughter had a little dance before we walked along the river. I was hoping to see some floats and light installations but at 8.30 pm there was nothing to see on the water – it was beautiful all the same. Federation Square/ Flinders Street Station precinct was packed with people expecting a light display on Melbourne’s iconic station, but unfortnately were no projections happening. From there we headed around the corner where the Australian Centre for the Moving Image was brightly illumunated with colourful patterns that the kids loved. We knew of some fantastic displays at the National Gallery of Victoria and Royal Exhibition Building, but as it was 10 pm we decided to not push the kids and head back to our hotel.

Back at the beautiful Marriott we had a wonderful rest in very comfy beds. When we awoke we drove up to Queen Victoria Market and tried Frances Cafe on Franklin Street. Great food and service. After brunch we walked over to Flag Staff Gardens and the kids loved exploring a new park. The sun was shining and it was a great way to spend a Sunday.

I highly recommend White Night Melbourne, Fonda, Melbourne Marriott, Frances Cafe and Flag Staff Gardens. We were only one hour from home but it was a great change of scenery and mini break for my family. I hope you have had a happy weekend with your family too.

About Me

I'm Jade and I have been an international flight attendant for over ten years. I'm married to Ben and we have two children Charlotte and Sol. We live on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. I love my family and I love flying. I hope you enjoy my blog x